One step has already been taken in that direction as Ohio State announced Tuesday that has scheduled a home-and-home series with Big 12 team TCU in 2018 and 2019.

“Competing against programs from the state of Texas has always offered exciting experiences for our players and fans,” Smith said. “TCU continues to be one of the top football programs in the country.”

Ohio State and TCU have played six times in the past, but not since 1973. The Buckeyes hold a 4-4-1 edge in the series. The 2018 game will be played Sept. 15 at TCU. The 2019 game will be Sept. 21 at Ohio Stadium.